Department of Defense Spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Anton T. Semelroth provided the following readout:
Principal Director for Europe and NATO Policy Andrew L. Winternitz and Director for Planning, Programs and Analysis in the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment Melissa Benkert led a U.S. Department of Defense delegation to Ankara on October 27 for dispute resolution discussions to address remaining issues resulting from Turkey's removal from the F-35 program, which was finalized on September 23. The Turkish delegation was composed of representatives from the Turkish Ministry of National Defense. The meeting demonstrates the commitment of the United States Government to conclude respectfully Turkey's prior involvement in the F-35 program. Discussions were productive, and the delegations plan to meet again in the coming months in Washington, D.C.
